An energy optimization framework for sustainability analysis: Inclusion of behavioral parameters as a virtual technology in energy optimization models

Abstract

This chapter introduces an innovative approach that combines the deductive method used to construct normative energy-economy models and the inductive method of social sciences. Consumer behavior is described via technological attributes and used in virtual process technologies in an energy optimization framework. The main finding is that it is possible to evaluate consumer information and behavior together with technological progress and integrate them on the same modeling platform. The approach eliminates the systematic error on the demand side where the efficiency of demand-side management measures is over optimistic, which may lead to inaccurate decisions and poor policies. Thus, this method paves the way to a new stream in energy modeling.